TUSAŞ and Brazilian Embraer announced the signing of a MoU for strategic cooperation involving the production of the E-Jet E2 airliners during LAAD exhibition.
turdef.com
Is pure speculation but.....
TAI could build its own AWACS Aircraft for its own use and for export, either under license or based on the Embraer E-Jet E2 Type.
It would be cost-effective, efficient and would close an export gap compared to the extremely expensive US models.
At the very least, it would be a logical step.
Turkey has been working for years to strengthen its defense and aerospace industry and reduce its dependence on foreign technology. Developing an indigenous AWACS system would:
- Ensure technological independence – Turkey is currently reliant on foreign suppliers for airborne early warning systems, such as modified Boeing (Peace Eagle) with ASELSAN, a domestic system would significantly reduce that dependency.
- Build technical know-how – With TUSAŞ’s existing capabilities in electronics, sensor integration, and airframe modification, combined with a partner like Embraer, an indigenous AEW&C based on the E2 platform would be technically feasible.
- Create export potential – Many countries are looking for more compact and cost-effective AWACS alternatives. A Turkish-Brazilian platform could fill that niche.
- Enable NATO integration – Turkey could offer a NATO-compatible system that is interoperable, yet under national control.
The E190-E2 is a very promising platform: enough space for sensor suites, solid range, modern avionics – and with Turkish involvement in the production line, there would already be access to the structure and systems integration.
Or Refueling Aircraft?
Why an aerial refueling aircraft based on the E2 makes sense:
- Compact solution for mid-sized powers: Not every country needs large tankers like the KC-135 or A330 MRTT. A smaller, more affordable platform could be very attractive for many nations.
- Technically feasible: The E190-E2 has the range, structural strength, and avionics to be converted into a tanker platform. Modifications such as a hose-and-drogue or boom system are technically achievable.
- Complement to the Turkish Air Force: Turkey currently operates KC-135Rs – aging aircraft with U.S. dependence. An E2-based aerial refueling solution would be a perfect supplement or eventual replacement under national control.
- Export potential: Many smaller NATO members or countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia could be interested in a modular platform – for example, as a transporter, tanker, or even ISR aircraft.
- TUSAŞ's role: With its experience in fuselage manufacturing, aircraft modification, system integration, and flight testing, TUSAŞ would be an ideal industrial partner for such a tanker version.
A modular E190-E2 (as tanker, AWACS, ISR, or MedEvac) developed under Turkish-Brazilian cooperation could become a "second-line multirole force multiplier" – smaller than the A330 MRTT, but with high autonomy and strong export potential.
If TUSAŞ and Embraer deepen their partnership, an AWACS project could realistically emerge in the mid-term. Perhaps this MoU is even a first step in that direction, even if it's not publicly stated yet.